David Beckham has never been shy about showing his love for his family, but recently, the football legend found himself at the center of a debate that sparked a wave of online criticism. The reason? His frequent displays of affection for his daughter, Harper, which included kissing her on the lips. In a world where celebrities are constantly scrutinized, Beckham’s simple act of fatherly love has ignited controversy, with some questioning whether this form of affection is appropriate. But Beckham, as always, is standing firm, defending his bond with Harper and explaining the depth of their close relationship.

The former England captain has long been known as a devoted family man. His Instagram feed is filled with snapshots of his life with wife Victoria Beckham and their four children, Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz, and Harper. One recurring theme in his posts is the special connection he shares with his youngest child, Harper, often captured in tender moments between the two. However, one such photo—showing Beckham giving Harper a kiss on the lips—caught the attention of critics, who deemed the gesture “inappropriate” for a father and daughter.

Rather than staying silent amid the backlash, Beckham decided to address the criticism head-on. In a recent interview, he defended his affectionate behavior, explaining that it comes from a place of pure love and is a natural expression of their close bond. “We’re like best friends,” Beckham said of his relationship with Harper. “I kiss all my kids on the lips. Brooklyn, maybe not so much now that he’s older, but I’m very affectionate with the kids. It’s how I was brought up, and it’s how Victoria and I are with our children.”

Beckham’s response highlights a cultural divide when it comes to public displays of affection between parents and children. While some view kissing on the lips as a normal and innocent part of parenting, others feel that there should be boundaries, particularly as children grow older. For Beckham, however, this type of affection is a natural and loving way to connect with his children, and he sees no reason to change.

“I got criticized for kissing my daughter on the lips the other day,” Beckham explained. “But I kiss all my kids on the lips. It’s just how we are as a family, and that’s the way I was brought up—by love and being affectionate with your kids.”

His words have resonated with many parents who agree that physical affection is a vital part of fostering close relationships with children. Several supporters have rallied behind Beckham, sharing their own experiences and expressing their belief that parents should feel free to show love for their children in whatever way feels right for their family. “It’s so sad that in today’s world, something as innocent and loving as a father kissing his daughter has to be questioned,” one fan commented on Instagram. “David and Harper have such a sweet bond, and people should mind their own business.”

Another supporter echoed this sentiment, tweeting, “As a parent, showing your kids affection is so important. I think David Beckham is doing a great job, and Harper is lucky to have such a loving dad.”

But despite the wave of support, some remain firm in their stance that kissing on the lips should be reserved for romantic relationships. For these critics, the gesture crosses a line, even if it is between a parent and child. “It’s not about love, it’s about boundaries,” one critic wrote. “There are plenty of ways to show affection without kissing on the lips.”

The debate has prompted a broader discussion about parenting styles and cultural norms around affection. While some people see kissing on the lips as an intimate act that should be reserved for partners, others view it as a harmless and loving expression between family members. The controversy reflects the differing views people hold on physical affection and how they were raised to express love.

Beckham, however, remains unbothered by the negativity. His priority, as always, is his family, and he is confident in the way he and Victoria are raising their children. He emphasized that the most important thing is that his kids feel loved and supported, and physical affection is a big part of that. “As a parent, you want to be affectionate with your kids and make them feel loved, and we’re lucky to have the relationship we have with our children,” Beckham said.

Victoria Beckham has also spoken out in support of her husband, defending his affectionate nature and their family dynamic. “David is the most incredible dad,” she said in a recent interview. “He’s so loving and caring with all of our kids, and they adore him for it. That’s what’s important—showing them love and making them feel valued.”

Ultimately, for the Beckhams, showing affection through physical gestures like kissing on the lips is just another way of reinforcing the love and trust they have built within their family. Despite the controversy, Beckham’s bond with his children remains unshaken, and he is unapologetic about how he chooses to show his love for them.

In a world where parenting choices are often scrutinized, Beckham’s message is clear: Love and affection should not be limited by societal expectations. Whether it’s a kiss on the cheek, a hug, or even a kiss on the lips, the most important thing is that children know they are cherished. As Beckham concluded, “At the end of the day, I want my kids to know they’re loved, and that’s all that matters.”